ARMY MODERNIZATION: Steps Needed to Ensure Army Futures Command Fully Applies Leading Practices (GAO-19-132)

Abstract

In order for the Army to maintain its technological edge over potential adversaries, it plans to invest in near- and long-term modernization efforts; however, the Army has struggled with modernization initiatives in the past. For example, the Future Combat System was canceled after a cost of $21 billion and delivery of few new capabilities. The National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2018 included a provision for the GAO to report on the Army’s modernization strategy. This report assesses (1) the status of the Army’s near- and long-term modernization efforts and (2) the extent to which the Army has applied leading practices to these efforts. The GAO reviewed Army directives, procedures, and policies, and compared the Army’s efforts with leading practices for requirements and technology development, effective cross-functional teams, and mergers and organizational transformations.